uvase by Caleb Siemon
“Most glassblowers aren't born artists,” says Caleb Siemon of California. “They're born pyromaniacs.” When he finally decided to pursue glass artistry, Siemon traveled to Murano to apprentice under a master, and his work showcases his training in Muranese traditions, along with his penchant for simple Scandinavian design. The unique combination of detail and restraint is evident in his collections of vases, bowls and pendant lights. www.calebsiemon.com. Accent on Design®
Global Unity Bracelet by GeoArt by Cynthia Gale
When designing this piece, Cynthia Gale drew inspiration from the Washington National Cathedral, the sixth largest cathedral in the world which stands as “a house of prayer for all people.” Six individual charms represent the major faiths of the world: Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. They are, literally and figuratively, linked together in sterling silver. www.geoartnyc.com. Handmade®
World Cushion Covers by Handmade Expressions
Just three years ago, fair trade motivated Manish Gupta to leave his corporate job in Texas and return to his homeland in Rajasthan, India. Now, his company employs local craftspeople to create jewelry, clothing and accessories. In return, they are given fair wages, health care and education. On these cotton covers, artisans make the shape of continents using batik art, or wax printing. The set includes three different continents and background colors. Displayed together, they show a united world. www.handmadeexpressions.net. Handmade
Small Orange in Big Apple earrings by Prudence Cheah
A big story told on a small scale. Prudence Cheah’s earrings represent her life as a Malaysian now living in NYC. The jewelry artist – known for her sculptural pieces in playful colors – calls on her childhood memories for color inspiration. Her earring collection combines flowers with stones in rich tropical colors, such as red carnelian, yellow quartz, dark green aventurine, fuchsia chalcedony and blue agate. www.prudencecheah.com. Personal Accessories
Shramik Huge Totes by Aid to Artisans
A “Code of Practice” guides Aid to Artisans, one which supports trade with developing countries. The resulting relationships provide a comprehensive selection of imported decorative arts, textiles, home furnishings and fashion. These totes are produced by Shramik Kala, a collective of 400 craftswomen from the southern Indian state of Karnataka. Their livelihood is derived from the sale of these woven bags, handcrafted in combinations of jute, cotton, banana, mestha fiber, leather and fabric. www.aidtoartisans.org. Handmade
Bracelet by Made From Coins
Talk about finding cash in the attic. Artist and designer Jessie Kislin Driscoll inherited a vast collection of silver coins from her grandfather’s estate, along with his interest in jewelry-making. She’s continuing a family tradition, using the coins as both inspiration and material. Each piece, be it a bracelet, necklace or earring, has two sides - one being the original face of a dime, quarter or half-dollar from another place in time. www.madefromcoins.com. Handmade
The New York International Gift Fair® is owned and managed by GLM®, a dmg world media business.
Register to attend, or apply to exhibit, at www.nyigf.com.